Medications That May Affect Memory and Cognitive Function

Many people assume that memory problems are simply a normal part of getting older. But medications can sometimes contribute to confusion, drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, or other changes in cognitive function, particularly in older adults or when several medicines are taken together.

That doesn’t mean you should stop taking a prescribed medication because of something you read online. In many cases, a medication provides important benefits and the risks need to be weighed against those benefits.

Some medications have well-established effects on cognition, while others have only been associated with cognitive problems in observational studies. Understanding the difference is important.

Here are several medication groups that deserve a closer discussion with a healthcare professional if you’re experiencing unexplained memory or concentration problems.

1. Benzodiazepines and Memory

Benzodiazepines include medications such as alprazolam (Xanax) and diazepam (Valium). They are commonly prescribed for anxiety, certain seizure disorders, and other conditions.

These medicines can cause drowsiness, slowed thinking, impaired coordination, and problems with attention or memory, particularly in older adults.

Long-term use can also lead to physical dependence, meaning that stopping suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms. That’s why people who have been taking a benzodiazepine regularly should not stop it abruptly without medical guidance.

Some observational studies have investigated whether long-term benzodiazepine use is associated with dementia. However, an association does not prove that the medication causes Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.

If you’re concerned about a benzodiazepine you’re taking, ask your healthcare professional whether the medication is still appropriate and whether a gradual reduction or another treatment option might be suitable.